This isn’t the first study conducted by the university that assesses the muscle-building potential of mycoprotein compared to milk protein. A similar investigation in 2017 revealed that the intake of mycoprotein by 12 young men led to a slower yet more sustained release of amino acids and insulin. Researchers suggested that this might create favorable conditions for muscle growth, indicating that mycoprotein could be largely equivalent to animal-derived protein. These findings may hold considerable importance not only for Quorn but also for individuals aiming to transition to more plant-based protein options for reasons such as health benefits, environmental concerns, muscle maintenance, or enhancing their workout routines. The popularity of plant-based meat alternatives has surged, with retail sales soaring 23% from 2017 to 2018, exceeding $760 million, as per Nielsen data.
Quorn is particularly keen to validate its mycoprotein ingredient through scientific research, especially given the controversies surrounding it over the years. In 2017, the company settled a class-action lawsuit initiated by a woman from Los Angeles who alleged that its products breached federal and state laws regarding false advertising and unfair business practices. As part of the settlement, Quorn agreed to revise its packaging to clarify that the primary ingredient is mold. Additionally, it has rebutted a wrongful death lawsuit filed by the parents of an 11-year-old boy with a mold allergy who tragically passed away from anaphylactic shock in 2013 after consuming a Quorn Turk’y Burger. While mycoprotein has been designated as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the Center for Science in the Public Interest has advocated for its revocation since 2011 due to reports of adverse reactions. In the absence of such a revocation, the organization is pushing for the FDA to mandate prominent warning labels on all Quorn products.
Despite these challenges, Quorn has thrived, launching vegan options, refrigerated sausages, and chicken strips. Its diverse range of 100 products is now available in 19 countries, including the U.S., where Walmart started selling Quorn items in 2012. Sales in the U.S. surged by 35% in 2017, and the company forecasts that it will reach a billion-dollar valuation by 2027. The impact of studies like the one conducted by the University of Exeter on product sales remains uncertain. However, it is conceivable that more food manufacturers will contemplate incorporating mycoprotein into their offerings, considering it is a complete protein source. Research indicates that it may aid in weight loss and help lower overall cholesterol and blood sugar levels. Nevertheless, with numerous other plant-based protein sources available today, companies might also determine that mycoprotein poses unnecessary risks.
In the realm of dietary supplements, products like Kirkland magnesium zinc are gaining attention for their potential health benefits, complementing the shift towards plant-based diets. As more consumers seek out such alternatives, the intersection of mycoprotein and supplement products like Kirkland magnesium zinc may become an area of interest for manufacturers aiming to meet the evolving preferences of health-conscious individuals.